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Posted on: February 19, 2019

Aging into the Future: Pierce County 2020-2030

Over the next 10 years, Pierce County will look substantially different than it does today – especially for older adults and individuals with disabilities. By the year 2030, a large percentage of county residents will be over the age of 60 and many of them will also be living with physical, cognitive, developmental and intellectual disabilities.

To prepare for this transformative time, Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources is hosting “Aging into the Future: Pierce County 2020-2030.” This innovative forum is more than a conference on aging. It is a community conversation about what to look for in the coming decade and how we can start planning now to make the best use of emerging services, technologies and resources.

The conference will feature innovative, fast-paced PechaKucha presentations on crucial topics such as transportation, housing, long-term health, financial security, threats to independence and more. This specialized format allows presenters to use only 20 slides, for 20 seconds each, to illustrate their vision. Each presentation will be followed by a live survey of audience members using a real-time electronic voting system. Participants will also be able to respond with written feedback, suggestions and recommendations.

Help us shape the future for older adults and individuals with disabilities in Pierce County! Join us for this inspiring event on Saturday, Mar. 23, at the McGavick Conference Center at Clover Park Technical College, located at 4500 Steilacoom Blvd. SW, Building 23 in Lakewood. Doors open at 8 a.m. with presentations held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This conference is free, but attendees must register in advance. Tickets are available online or by calling the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) at 253-798-4600.

“It’s often said the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago,” said Aaron Van Valkenburg, Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources manager. “Nobody knows the future, but we can and should prepare for it. Now is the time for seniors, people with disabilities, caregivers, family members, friends and providers throughout the county to start thinking about how to make Pierce County a community to age in place safely, independently and affordably.”

While the conference is intended for seniors, individuals with disabilities, caregivers, families, service providers and community members, this event is open to the public. Refreshments will be provided. Attendees are invited to bring non-perishable food donations for the Nourish Pierce County food banks. For more information, free tickets and reasonable accommodation requests visit us online or call the ADRC at 253-798-4600.